Definition

1. Adverb:
   • Simultaneously; in one single instance or action: Used to indicate that multiple items are being handled, taken, or considered together in a single group or action.

Usage

The phrase "at a time" is used to specify the number of items or people involved in a single, simultaneous action. It follows a number or quantity word (like "one," "two," "several") to describe how many units are grouped for that action. - It is commonly used in instructions, descriptions of processes, or when setting limits. - The structure is typically: [Number/Quantity] + at a time.

Examples

• Adverb:
  • Please enter the room two at a time. (This means two people should enter together, as a pair.)
  • He can only focus on one task at a time. (This means he handles tasks singly, not multiple tasks simultaneously.)
  • The machine processes five sheets of paper at a time. (This means it handles five sheets together in each cycle.)

Advanced Usage

• "One at a time": This is a very common usage emphasizing sequential, individual handling rather than simultaneity. It instructs or describes doing things singly and in order.
  • Please come forward one at a time to receive your certificate.
• "[Number] at a time": Used to express capacity, limits, or method in various contexts.
  • The elevator can carry ten people at a time. (This states its simultaneous capacity.)
  • Add the sugar to the mixture a cup at a time. (This describes the method: add single cups sequentially.)

Variants and Related Words

• Simultaneously (adv): Happening or being done at exactly the same time. This is a close synonym but is a single word, not a phrase.
• Concurrently (adv): Existing, happening, or done at the same time. More formal than "simultaneously."
• In batches: A related phrase meaning in groups, often used for processing or manufacturing. (e.g., )

Synonyms

• Together: As a group; with each other.
• In one go: In a single attempt or session.
• Per instance: For each occurrence or action (more formal).

Related Phrases

• At any one time: This phrase is used to mean "at any single moment or period." It emphasizes a state or condition existing concurrently.
  • A maximum of three users can be logged in at any one time.
• At the same time: This phrase can mean "simultaneously," but it also has a common secondary meaning of "however" or "nevertheless" to introduce a contrasting point.
  • He was criticized for being late, but at the same time, his work is excellent. (Here, it does not mean "simultaneously" but "however.")

Adverb

1. simultaneously
   • he took three cookies at a time